Coventry schoolchildren raised a total of £1,140 for the Coventry Boot Fund by packing bags.

More than 20 pupils from Pattison College, Binley Road, Binley, helped Christmas shop-pers at the Marks & Spencer store in the city centre precinct pack up their goods in return for donations for the Children's Boot Fund.

Martin Harban, treasurer of the Children's Boot Fund, explained: "The fund was founded in Coventry at the end of the 19th century to buy boots for children in need.

"Even today it is still relevant as many children attend school wearing worn out or ill fitting shoes which the parents simply cannot afford to replace."

Elizabeth McConnell, headteacher of Pattisons College, added: "It's quite something for pupils to give up their Saturday morning and even put on their school uniforms, when I'm sure they would rather be Christmas shopping.

"I am really proud of them all for giving up their time, it is superb."

If you can help the Boot Fund then send donations to Children's Boot Fund, PO Box 3142, Kenilworth, CV8 2ZW.